What technique best minimizes risk when lifting a patient with a suspected hip injury?

What technique best minimizes risk when lifting a patient with a suspected hip injury?

• A. Use a scoop stretcher or slide board to limit movement
• B. Lift the patient directly using your arms
• C. Support the injured hip tightly during the move
• D. Allow the patient to sit up before lifting

Answer: (A)

Using a scoop stretcher or slide board to lift a patient with a suspected hip injury is the best technique for several reasons. These devices are specifically designed to minimize patient movement, which is crucial in cases involving potential fractures or severe injuries. By limiting the range of motion, you help reduce the risk of exacerbating any existing injuries, particularly in the hip area where movement can lead to increased pain or further damage. The scoop stretcher enables the EMTs to secure the patient without the need for lifting them directly, which is especially important in cases where the patient may have suffered trauma and any jarring movement could worsen their condition. A slide board also facilitates a smooth transfer while maintaining the patient's position. In contrast, other methods like lifting the patient directly or allowing them to sit up can increase the risk of further injury by potentially displacing fractures or causing additional discomfort. Supporting the injured hip tightly could lead to exacerbating pain or additional injury if not done with the right technique and consideration. Thus, using specialized equipment is the most effective way to ensure safety during the lifting process in such scenarios.

Using a scoop stretcher or slide board to lift a patient with a suspected hip injury is the best technique for several reasons. These devices are specifically designed to minimize patient movement, which is crucial in cases involving potential fractures or severe injuries. By limiting the range of motion, you help reduce the risk of exacerbating any existing injuries, particularly in the hip area where movement can lead to increased pain or further damage.

The scoop stretcher enables the EMTs to secure the patient without the need for lifting them directly, which is especially important in cases where the patient may have suffered trauma and any jarring movement could worsen their condition. A slide board also facilitates a smooth transfer while maintaining the patient's position.

In contrast, other methods like lifting the patient directly or allowing them to sit up can increase the risk of further injury by potentially displacing fractures or causing additional discomfort. Supporting the injured hip tightly could lead to exacerbating pain or additional injury if not done with the right technique and consideration. Thus, using specialized equipment is the most effective way to ensure safety during the lifting process in such scenarios.